SYNOPSIS: Be inspired by the amazing artwork of renowned cartoonist, engineer, and inventor Rube Goldberg, whose wacky, imagined machines accomplished tasks by taking the most complicated route possible. In this entertaining and instructive book, mechanical engineer and educator Paul Long gives instructions for making devices using ordinary objects in ingenious ways. Create machines that flip a switch, squeeze toothpaste, dispense candy, and more.
On sale October 16. Watch an example here.

MY THOUGHTS: As our school year begins, homeschoolers are challenged to find engaging, educational and fun ways to teach STEM. Thankfully, books like this provide ample opportunities to incorporate it. Among the many ‘pros’ that this book brings are its 12 projects. That’s 12 days of STEM teaching. Our author, Paul Long, knows his machines as he is an engineer & educator. Having a background such as this provides a unique insight homeschoolers may not have had before.

A huge plus, in my opinion, is that these machines use everyday objects in their construction. Students can begin to see STEM/STEAM in the world around them. Along with the project itself, additional, topical information is provided making it easy to combine classes like Science & Art. We also have the fact that the book itself is unique. It is the only how-to book currently available on the topic.

Brick-and-mortar students will also identify with and be able to accomplish building these machines. With Science fairs and projects soon to come, it will add an additional learning component to their coursework. Books such as these are timeless and a sound investment to your home library. It is marketed to ages 10 & up, but younger students can benefit from their older counterparts’ involvement. I highly recommend it!

*Pic & Synopsis belong solely to the author/publisher.

**I received a copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are mine.

SYNOPSIS:What can a makeable monster do? They motor, inflate, wobble, drool, soar, and one can even do push-ups. Add a pair of wings, subtract a tentacle… The best thing about these monsters is that they’re part experiment, part imagination, and 100% customizable. Author Sam Haynor draws on his experience with the San Francisco Exploratorium, Oakland Toy Lab, GoldieBlox, and designing STEAM curriculum to create projects packed with fun features.
On sale October 9.MY THOUGHTS: There is so much to love about this book. First, its author. Sam Haynor is a STEAM curriculum builder. Who better to give homeschoolers STEA advice?! There are 21 experiments! That’s a lot of STEAM material for your classrooms. If utilized in a daily format, that’s 21 days of STEAM lessons. Plus, you could mix and match your classes. Science & art for example.
These are safe projects. Independent workers can spend their time exploring STEAM concepts while working alone. Younger kids may need a little assistance, but, they will be using independent working skills like their older counterparts. Or team up 2 students for a leadership/team building exercise. But, don’t forget the FUN!

If you aren’t a homeschooler, this book can still apply to you. There’s no reason a brick and mortar student couldn’t benefit from these projects. Perhaps with a Science Fair approaching or a rainy weekend. I applaud any project that doesn’t involve iPhones or having to take a bank loan for pieces to build it!

Sam Haynor has done a fantastic job keeping tabs on the quickly evolving STEAM system. Take advantage of the knowledge he’s acquired and invest in a book you’ll use for years to come!